The Robert Morris University Island Sports Center currently has three competitive U.S. Figure Skating synchronized skating teams - the Steel City Blades Competitive and Junior Competitive and the Free Spirits adult team, in addition to our youth developmental program the Little Blades.

The purpose of the Adult Learn to Synchronize Skate program is to introduce adult skaters ages 21 and older to synchronized skating and to familiarize them with elementary holds, formations and transitions. Emphasis is on the development of basic synchronized skating skills that are necessary to prepare for synchronized team tryouts. However, there is no obligation to try out or join the Free Spirits synchronized skating team.

The Adult Learn to Synchronize Skate program will teach a variety of hand, elbow and shoulder holds in addition to footwork, unison, straight lines and formations. You'll improve your basic skating skills while having lots of fun! There is a place for everyone in our synchronized skating program!

In order to participate in the Adult Learn to Synchronize Skate program, skaters must be at least 21 years of age and possess B forward and backward skating skills.

The Adult Learn to Synchronize Skate program is under the direction of Marsha Snyder, head coach of the RMU Island Sports Center Steel City Blades and Free Spirits as well as the RMU collegiate synchronized skating team. Snyder is a three-time U.S. National Synchronized Skating gold medalist and a 2003 graduate of Miami University of Ohio, where she was a four-year member of the varsity synchronized skating team. She has competed at the international level, finishing ninth at the ISU World Championships in 2003.